The Importance of Vaccination for Children’s Immune Systems: Expert Advice from Pediatrician Dr. Miza Dito Afrizal

JawaPos.com – Pediatrician Dr. Miza Dito Afrizal, Sp.A, BmedSci, M.Kes who is a member of the Indonesian Pediatrician Association (IDAI) reminded parents about the importance of vaccination for children’s immune systems.

“Vaccination is very important in strengthening our immune system. Through vaccination, we can train the immune system to recognize and respond to potential threats such as viruses,” said Miza, Wednesday (14/6).

Vaccination has a vital role to play in fighting life-threatening diseases, because each vaccine is targeted against diseases that can cause death, disability, or epidemics.

Several types of vaccines are available, Miza said, including hepatitis B vaccine, polio, BCG (Bacillus Calmette-Guérin) for tuberculosis, HIB (Haemophilus influenzae type B) for pneumonia or meningitis, DPT (Diphtheria, Pertussis (whooping cough), and tetanus), and others.

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According to the doctor who practices at RSIA Growth and Development in Depok, primary vaccination involves a series of vaccine doses in infants to respond to the initial antibodies. For example, the DPT vaccine is given to babies aged two, three and four months, respectively.

However, antibody levels can decrease, so a booster dose is needed in infants aged 18 months and five years.

“At around 16 months, the child’s antibodies start to fall. Before the antibodies run out, we need to do a DPT booster which is usually done at 16 months, or after two months we are given a booster at 18 months. Booster to strengthen, can be many times the antibody, so the protection is stronger and longer, “explained Miza.

“After being given this booster, usually the antibodies will start to decrease around the age of four, when around the age of four they start to decline, then at the age of five they are given another DPT booster,” he added.

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When not vaccinating at those ages, Miza emphasized that it is never too late to undergo immunization.

Except, for vaccines to prevent tuberculosis such as BCG and rotavirus (preventing diarrhea transmission) which have an age limit. However, it is important not to delay immunization because it can make children susceptible to disease.

For parents who doubt or are confused about their child’s immunization status, Miza urges parents to visit health facilities, such as health centers, clinics or hospitals. By providing a child’s vaccination record, health workers can evaluate which vaccines need to be completed.

Miza also emphasized the importance of not delaying immunization because it can make children susceptible to disease.